Apple has caused a stir in the industry by announcing the retirement of its 26-year veteran executive Dan Riccio. Riccio, who played a critical role in Apple’s success for over a quarter of a century, led the development of important products such as AirPods and iPhone.
Farewell to Apple after 26 years: Hardware executive Dan Riccio is leaving
Dan Riccio, a 26-year veteran of Apple, is saying goodbye to the technology giant by retiring. Riccio, who played a key role in the development of the company’s most successful products such as AirPods and iPhone; most recently served as Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering. He has been the head of Apple’s hardware division since 2012.
Before leading hardware engineering, Riccio was the head of the iPad division. It was also stated that he led the shelved Apple Car project and Vision Pro. In 2021, Riccio passed the hardware engineering flag to John Ternus. Ternus is considered among the potential successors to long-time CEO Tim Cook.
Riccio’s departure is considered part of the most extensive leadership changes at Apple since Jony Ive’s departure in 2019. Other senior design executives who have left in recent years include Evans Hankey and Tang Tan, VP of iPhone and Apple Watch design.
With 26 years of experience, Riccio has played a key role in Apple’s success with products such as the iPod, iPad and the new iPhone. His retirement comes at a time when the company is focusing on new initiatives such as wearable technology, VR and automotive.